MADRID — Álvaro Arbeloa commended Trent Alexander-Arnold, stating that Real Madrid is “fortunate to have” him after the full-back delivered a standout performance with an assist in the team’s 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad on Saturday.
Alexander-Arnold’s precise delivery into the box allowed Gonzalo García to score, giving Madrid the lead just five minutes into the match at the Bernabéu. Following that, two penalties from Vinícius Júnior and a goal from Federico Valverde solidified the win, propelling Madrid to the top of the LaLiga standings.
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The England international has faced challenges in his first season in Spain, with injuries restricting him to just 466 minutes — and two assists — in LaLiga since his high-profile transfer from Liverpool last summer.
“We already know what Trent is capable of,” Arbeloa remarked on Real Madrid TV. “It was a pleasant surprise to witness his understanding of the game and how he perceives spaces. Such qualities are invaluable for a coach, as they help shape how we want to play.”
Arbeloa opted for Alexander-Arnold at right-back over Dani Carvajal, both returning from fitness, with Valverde reinstated in his preferred midfield position.
Spain international Carvajal replaced Alexander-Arnold after a commendable 60-minute performance.
“In working with [Alexander-Arnold], he strikes me as a very astute individual who comprehends the game exceptionally well,” Arbeloa added in his post-match press conference. “He’s not the conventional full-back who is always positioned wide; he also has the capability to play centrally. We encourage our players to switch positions, so having someone like him is a great asset.”
Arbeloa also acknowledged Vinícius Júnior, who has now scored in consecutive league matches for the first time since August, after returning from suspension last weekend.
“I’ve been seeing an exceptional Vinícius for a month now, not just in this match,” Arbeloa stated. “He’s been operating at a high level and being a pivotal player. For me, he transcends just the statistics; he can turn matches around.”
Kylian Mbappé remained an unused substitute on Saturday, replaced by García, but Arbeloa expressed optimism that the star forward would be ready for Madrid’s Champions League playoff first leg against Benfica on Tuesday.
“Mbappé has been managing [left knee] discomfort for a while now,” Arbeloa noted. “He’s exerting tremendous effort every time he steps onto the field. Today, we opted to avoid any risks in light of Tuesday’s match.”